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What made you choose cybersecurity? Have you always been interested in technology or was this a profession you just fell into??

How easy is it to adjust into this career?

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Tim’s Answer

Hey Elyaz,
While I am not in the cybersecurity industry it is every ones responsible for helping secure all devices on a
network. I would say the biggest issue with cybersecurity is training user how to spot a phishing email and training
the users on the proper way of handling them. After all most companies that get ransomware get it through email by
an employee clicking on a link.
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Jason’s Answer

Hey Elyaz,

Great question. For me it actually started by taking a course in college called Management information systems. It was the first technology specific course I'd ever taken in an education setting. The first time I realized that technology could BE my career. Forever grateful for that course as I had no idea what I wanted to do until then. I played a game called watchdogs and its sequel while in college which really got me interested in the world of cyber and how vast and important it was. After graduating I started a career in tech sales which I soon learned would include some cybersecurity as well. So I took the time to try and lean in and learn more about cybersecurity over the years. I think it being easy or hard is really dependent on ones interest. I'm fascinated by cybersecurity so the learning aspect is fun to me while others might find it mundane.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Good Day Elyaz!

Choosing Cybersecurity: Interest and Journey

The decision to pursue a career in cybersecurity often stems from a combination of personal interest in technology, awareness of the growing importance of digital security, and the desire to protect individuals and organizations from cyber threats. Many individuals who enter this field have had an early fascination with computers, programming, or information technology. This foundational interest can manifest in various ways, such as tinkering with hardware, learning to code, or engaging in online communities focused on tech.

For some, the journey into cybersecurity is more serendipitous. They may start their careers in related fields such as IT support, software development, or network administration. As they gain experience and become aware of the critical role cybersecurity plays in safeguarding data and systems, they may choose to specialize further. The increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks have made cybersecurity a vital area of focus for businesses and governments alike. This heightened awareness can motivate individuals to transition into this field even if they did not initially plan for it.

Adjusting to a Career in Cybersecurity

Transitioning into a cybersecurity career can vary significantly based on an individual’s background and prior experience. For those with a strong foundation in IT or computer science, the adjustment may be relatively smooth due to overlapping skills such as problem-solving, analytical thinking, and familiarity with networks and systems. However, for those coming from non-technical backgrounds, the adjustment might require more effort.

Education and Training: Many professionals entering cybersecurity pursue formal education through degree programs or certifications specific to the field (e.g., CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)). These educational pathways provide essential knowledge about security principles, risk management, compliance regulations, and technical skills necessary for various roles within cybersecurity.

Hands-On Experience: Practical experience is crucial in cybersecurity. Engaging in internships or entry-level positions allows newcomers to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. Additionally, participating in Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions or contributing to open-source security projects can enhance hands-on skills while building a professional network.

Continuous Learning: Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field due to rapid technological advancements and emerging threats. Professionals must commit to lifelong learning through workshops, webinars, conferences, and self-study resources like online courses or industry publications.

Soft Skills Development: Beyond technical expertise, soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and critical thinking are essential for success in cybersecurity roles. Being able to convey complex security concepts clearly to non-technical stakeholders is particularly valuable.

In summary, whether one enters cybersecurity out of long-standing interest or through a more circuitous route influenced by market demand or personal experiences, adjusting to this career involves acquiring relevant education and training while also gaining practical experience. With dedication and continuous learning efforts, most individuals can successfully transition into this dynamic field.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question

Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA): CISA provides comprehensive resources on best practices for securing information systems and insights into the evolving landscape of cyber threats.

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST): NIST develops standards that guide organizations on managing risks associated with information technology security; their publications are widely regarded as authoritative references within the industry.

CompTIA: As a leading provider of IT certifications including those specific to cybersecurity like Security+ and CySA+, CompTIA offers valuable insights into educational pathways and skill requirements for aspiring cybersecurity professionals.

Probability that the answer is correct: 95%

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Thank you comment icon Hello James, I could not thank you enough for the insight you provided in your response. The information you shared will not go to waste, and I will be sure to do further research on the resources you have discussed. I have your email and I hope to be able to ask more questions about cybersecurity in the future. God bless! Elyaz
Thank you comment icon Thank You Elyaz! You Are Most Welcome To Ask More Questions! I Am Glad To Help. God Bless You! James Constantine Frangos
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Dr’s Answer

Alright, Elyaz, buckle up! Let’s talk about the world of cybersecurity with some fun and flair!

So, why choose cybersecurity? Well, imagine this: You’re a digital superhero, fighting off the evil forces of hackers, identity thieves, and malicious software. It’s like being in an action movie where instead of dodging bullets, you’re outsmarting cyber villains one firewall at a time. 🦸‍♂️

Now, was it always the plan? Maybe, maybe not! Some folks go into tech knowing they want to work in cybersecurity from day one. But others? It’s like they accidentally walked into a magic portal and bam, they’re suddenly the guardians of the internet. Maybe you were just into tech, and one day, you realized you could stop the cyber bad guys and make the digital world safer—now that’s an epic plot twist.

Adjusting to Cybersecurity: Is It Easy? 🤔

Here’s the thing: Transitioning into cybersecurity is like learning how to ride a bike… but the bike is made of firewalls, encryption, and zero-day exploits. Sounds intense, right? But don’t worry, it’s totally possible to adjust. Here’s the secret sauce for making it smoother:

1. Learn the Basics (Don’t Skip the “What Is a Computer?” Stage): You might be a tech whiz already, or you might just know how to press the power button (no judgment). Either way, start with the basics—learn how networks work, what encryption is, and how attacks happen. It’s like learning the rules of the game before you start playing.


2. Hack the Hackers (Ethically, of Course): To be a great cybersecurity pro, it’s important to understand how hackers think. You won’t be running around with a black hat (that’s illegal, no thanks). But you can try out things like Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions or ethical hacking challenges. It’s like a video game for adults where the goal is to outsmart the bad guys. 🎮


3. Get Certified (It’s Your Cybersecurity Passport): Think of certifications like your “getting-into-the-cool-club” pass. Popular ones like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH are your golden tickets. These certs are like having a personal mentor who tells you, “You’re doing it right, keep going!”


4. Patience, Grasshopper: Cybersecurity isn’t a “learn it and forget it” field. You’ll keep learning throughout your career. Things change faster than a Wi-Fi signal during a thunderstorm. Stay curious and always be ready to level up your skills.


5. Network with the Pros: In this field, having a solid network is like having a super team of cyber ninjas. Join forums, attend meetups (yes, those exist!), or even follow the cybersecurity memes on Twitter (trust me, there are some). The more you interact with others, the faster you’ll catch on to what’s happening in the field.



Tips for Success:

Be persistent! Yes, cybersecurity can seem like a maze sometimes, but that’s what makes it fun. Keep solving those puzzles, and you’ll be a pro before you know it.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The cybersecurity community loves sharing knowledge. Don’t feel like you need to figure everything out alone—ask for help.

Stay curious. Cybersecurity is a constantly evolving field. Keep learning, experimenting, and even failing. (Yes, failing is part of the process—seriously, it's cool!)


And just like that, you’ll find your groove. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or someone who accidentally stumbled into the field, once you get the hang of it, cybersecurity will feel like your personal digital playground. You’ve got this, Elyaz. Now, go out there and protect the internet like the tech hero you were born to be! 🚀
Thank you comment icon Hey Doc, No way, you just turned my life into a video game—haha, that's my favorite kind of game. Thank you so much for this response and for making the adjustment seem like just another way of living. You are my kind of people. Thank you again for your time! Elyaz
Thank you comment icon Haha, Elyaz, I'm just here handing out the cheat codes for life—glad you’re ready to press start! 🚀 You're about to unlock all the secret levels in cybersecurity, and trust me, it's gonna be one epic adventure. Keep your health potions stocked (aka, stay curious and keep learning), and if you need any side quests or power-ups, you know where to find me! 🎮 Keep being awesome, my fellow digital hero! Always welcome! Dr H
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Ethan’s Answer

Hi Elyaz,

I joined the cybersecurity industry by some interest but mostly by chance. When I was applying to jobs, I happened to get lucky with landing in cybersecurity. Even though my introduction was by chance, I chose to stay because I was intrigued by the industry. The cybersecurity field is a rising and stable job area in these years because there are constantly emerging cyber threats that need to be fought. Additionally, our world is becoming increasingly online, and it is evermore important to protect the data that is being stored. If you are interested in the field, I would recommend looking into how attackers are creating threats over the past few years, such as ransomware or injections.
Thank you comment icon Hello Ethan, Thank you for taking the time to let me know a little about yourself and how you ended up in the tech industry. If by any chance I can ask you a personal question, how did you land a job? Were the requirements and standards rigorous? Thank you again for your time. Elyaz
Thank you comment icon Hey Elyaz! Of course, happy to help. I didn't have any specific preparation for cybersecurity. However, I studied engineering and business in college which set me up well to work as a product manager. Product managers work with engineering and business teams to develop product roadmaps and visions, so my studies helped me out. One thing that helped me with landing a job was participating in clubs. I think this is a great opportunity to get experience and expand your network, which is a generally great thing to do when preparing for recruiting. Ethan Chung
Thank you comment icon Nice! You seem to be a well-educated individual, and I applaud your studies and efforts to advance your work into any field of your choosing. Hats off to you, sir! Elyaz
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Jason’s Answer

Hi Elyaz,

Cybersecurity has moved to one of the top threats businesses face and I've always want to be at the forefront solving the most important problems for companies. My interest differs based on the theat environment and I try to obtain enough knowledge about the newest thing to pivot at any time. I hope that's helpful.
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